The New England Free Jacks signed Tuidraki Samusamuvodre for the remainder of the 2021 Major League Rugby season. The 23-year-old flyhalf, who has played wing, is 5’9″ and 190 lbs.
Tuidrakiwas originally signed by the Dallas Jackals for the 2021 MLR season, but he became a free agent after the Jackals postponed their entry into the league until 2022. His salary will not count in 2021 toward the salary cap in 2021 and he will be considered a domestic player for the season, as well.
Tuidraki was born and raised in Nadi, Fiji, a town on the west side of the island known for tourism. He attended and played rugby at Ratu Navula College, majoring in Applied Sciences and Technology, before deciding to move to Fiji’s capital city Suva to pursue rugby. He also studied at Nadi Muslim College, and computer science at Nasvillian College.
Tuidraki joined Gaunavou Rugby Club in 2016. In 2017, he joined the Australian-based club Southern District Colts.
In 2019, Tuidraki played provincial rugby for Nadi Rugby and has represented Fijian Latui and Fijian Airways Fijian Drua for a couple of seasons. In 2019, Tuidraki joined the Swire Shipping Fijian Warriors where he helped the team become Pacific Rugby Challenge Champions. He played in three matches, starting twice, and scoring 22 points (4 tries). In 2020, Tuidraki captained the Warriors and played in the Pacific Rugby Challenge again, starting all 3 matches and scoring 21 points (3 tries). He
Tuidraki joins the team after playing for Naitasiri Highlanders Club and was included in the Flying Fijian 2020 Autumn Nations Cup squad but did not play against Georgia in their only match.
New England Free Jacks Comments
“I’m delighted to be joining the New England Free Jacks and very much looking forward to playing in the MLR,” commented Tuidraki. “It’s a fantastic setup here with top-level Coaches and facilities. There’s real excitement around the place and I want to add to the squad and show what I can do on the field. I can’t wait to get started!”
Samusamuvodre has the ability to play across the backline, making him a dynamic and versatile addition to the Free Jacks roster for the 2021 Season.
“Tuidraki ‘the excitement machine’ Samusamuvodre enters the season at a critical period with a lot of home games coming up and a lot of excitement about the style he will bring to the team,” commented Head Coach, Ryan Martin. “He is a true triple threat with the ability to drive the game from 10, 12, or 15. Watch out all opposition as the excitement machine is going to light you up.”
Samusamuvodre arrived in New England this week and will join the Free Jacks squad following a mandatory quarantine period.
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